Bike Theft Prevention

Bicycle theft is an ongoing problem. If you haven't already, you should record the make, model and serial number of your bicycle and then log into myUWOportal to register your bike. Once you have registered your bike a sticker style permit will be mailed to your residence. You should then place the permit onto your bike as described.

While it's not possible to make your bicycle 100% theft-proof, there are some simple steps you can take to increase the security of your bicycle and its parts:

Use a case-hardened "U" lock; cable locks are easily cut.

If you use a regular padlock, purchase one with a 7/16" shank, the largest size that will fit the campus bike racks.

Lock your bike in a well-lit area.

Lock your bike in an area that can be seen by passing pedestrians or motorists.

Remember to also lock parts attached with quick-release mechanisms.

Below are pictures of bicycles that have either been locked correctly or incorrectly. Read the captions to discover what is correct or incorrect about the locking technique used.

Poorly Locked

This bike's owner has a good lock, but is using it incorrectly. The lock is fastened to the cable loop on the rack and not the rack itself. The cable is the most easily defeated part of any bike security system. The u-lock should be through the frame of the bicycle and secured to the rack, with the cables looped through the wheels and then onto the u-lock.

Poorly Locked

This bike has quick-release mechanisms on the wheels, so the cable should be looped through the wheels to prevent them from being stolen. If possible, this cable-type lock should be avoided.

Not Locked

This bike's owner has taken the time to loop the rack cables through the bike wheels and has secured the rack latch. The only thing missing is a lock. No matter how little value you place on your bicycle, there's someone who will steal it. Even a $5.00 lock is better than no lock at all.

Securely Locked

This bicycle is locked securely. Notice that the u-lock is locked to the bike frame and the rack post. Also notice that the rack cable is looped through the front wheel and attached to the u-lock. If the rear wheel also had the cable looped through it, this bike would be very secure.

Securely Locked

This bicycle is locked securely. Notice that the u-lock is locked to the bike frame and the rack post. Also notice that the rack cable is looped through the front wheel and attached to the u-lock. If the rear wheel also had the cable looped through it, this bike would be very secure.

Securely Locked

This bicycle is locked securely. Notice that the u-lock is locked to the bike frame and the rack post. Also notice that the rack cable is looped through the front wheel and attached to the u-lock. If the rear wheel also had the cable looped through it, this bike would be very secure.